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App review by Dana Villamagna, Common Sense Education | Updated July 2012
My Spelling Test

My Spelling Test

Empowering app engages students in spelling self-assessment

Learning rating
Editorial review by Common Sense Education
Community rating
Based on 1 review
Privacy rating
Not yet rated Expert evaluation by Common Sense
Grades
1–5 This grade range is based on learning appropriateness and doesn't take into account privacy. It's determined by Common Sense Education, not the product's publisher.
Subjects & Skills
English Language Arts, Character & SEL, Critical Thinking, College & Career Prep
Platforms:  Android, iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, Kindle Fire
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Take a look inside

5 images
Well-organized main screen.
Test-customizing options on the iPad version of the app.
All tests compiled on one page.
Adding a new word to a test.
Clear, encouraging feedback on the iPad version of the app.

Pros: Simple design puts kids' focus on the spelling.

Cons: If a kid doesn't accurately type in each word, even if they spell it correctly during a test, the app will record it as incorrect.

Bottom Line: Quality spelling app needs some oversight, could be improved with the ability to track multiple students' results.

My Spelling Test is an app that allows kids to create do-it-yourself spelling tests. Instructions are provided, although the process of creating the tests doesn't need much explanation. Kids type in each spelling word and record their voice saying the word; they'll then hear the test questions in their own familiar voice. After all spelling words have been inputted and recorded, My Spelling Test provides a word-by-word test. Kids are immediately told if the letters they type don't match the word they entered when making the list. Watch out: If kids don't enter the word correctly initially, they could be testing against an incorrect spelling, causing frustration and confusion. As a result, some teacher oversight of test setup is required. Note: At the time of this review, My Spelling Test does not include the ability to create individual student accounts for multiple user tracking, but the developer indicates that feature is coming soon.

The app is well-organized and intuitive, and kids will like the simple but charming design. One downside: If a kid doesn't accurately type in each word, even if he or she spells it correctly during a test, the app will record it as incorrect. During tests, the app gives users immediate feedback, which may help in spelling success. Lists are saved, test progress recorded, and results can be emailed. Encouraging words of praise appear on the screen with test results.

Overall Rating
Engagement Would it motivate students and hold their interest? Is it visually appealing? Would it inspire teachers to try something new or change their instruction?

The app engages kids by empowering them to become their own spelling tutor -- they can create and administer their own tests and view instant results.

Pedagogy Does the tool help teachers promote a more student-centered experience? Will students gain conceptual understanding or think critically? Does it deepen teachers’ pedagogical thinking?

During tests, the app gives users immediate feedback, which may be helpful in spelling success. This do-it-yourself spelling study tool promotes self-reliance and academic growth.

Support Can students and teachers get assistance when they need it? Is it created with people of different abilities and backgrounds in mind? Is learning reinforced and extended beyond the digital experience?

Clear, brief instructions are provided for each step of the test-creation process and test-taking. A progress tracker provides testing feedback and motivation.

Common Sense reviewer
Dana Villamagna Classroom teacher
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Key Standards Supported

Language

  • L.1.2d

    Use conventional spelling for words with common spelling patterns and for frequently occurring irregular words.

  • L.1.2e

    Spell untaught words phonetically, drawing on phonemic awareness and spelling conventions.

  • L.2.2d

    Generalize learned spelling patterns when writing words (e.g., cage → badge; boy → boil).

  • L.3.2e

    Use conventional spelling for high-frequency and other studied words and for adding suffixes to base words (e.g., sitting, smiled, cries, happiness).

  • L.4.2d

    Spell grade-appropriate words correctly, consulting references as needed.

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Community Rating

Featured review by
Mieke V. , Researcher
Researcher
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States
Create and take personalized spelling tests
My Spelling Test is a simple, straightforward app that allows users to create and then take their own spelling tests. Users create tests by typing in words and then recording their own voice pronouncing the words. To take the test, the app plays the recordings back one-by-one in a randomized order and the student must type each word after it is read. To hear the word again, simply click on a “say word again” button. The app gives instant feedback, telling the test-taker if the word was spelled correctly ...
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